11 Reasons You Should See a Pelvic PT in Your Fourth Trimester

We get it. After nine months of pregnancy, the intense, Iron Man-level feat that is childbirth, and the nonstop demands of parenthood, you’re probably more than ready for a break — emotionally, at least. But your body, still a bit shook from all that has been going on, may have a few choice words about the experience.

While the 6-week postpartum check-up is a great milestone, it’s often not enough to address the physical recovery from pregnancy and childbirth. This is where a pelvic physical therapist (PT) can come into play. At Origin, we’re determined to help guide you through the healing process with our Postpartum Recovery Program. It was developed by our expert clinical team and provides the education and guidance that every postpartum individual needs to heal from pregnancy and childbirth.

If you’re wondering whether you need one, here are the top 11 reasons to book that appointment and start feeling like yourself again.

1. Your pelvic floor muscle stretch more than three times their length during birth

Your pelvic floor — the set of muscles that support your bladder, uterus, and bowels — has really been pushed to its limits. Whether you had a vaginal birth or a C-section, these muscles can become injured or dysfunctional, leading to leaks, pressure, or discomfort. A pelvic PT can help restore strength and coordination to these important muscles so you can laugh, sneeze, and exercise without fearing an accident.

2. Because a cesarean is a major abdominal surgery — and you won’t get nearly enough information after

A C-section is major abdominal surgery, yet moms are sent home with very little info on how to heal. Scar tissue can lead to tightness, discomfort, or even impact your future fertility. A pelvic PT can help guide you through every step of your recovery and make sure your core and pelvic floor work together properly again.

3. Pooping will likely be a lot more tricky at first

If postpartum pooping feels like a second birthing experience, you’re not alone. Changes in hormones, pain medications, injured pelvic floor muscles, and pain from stitches or surgery can make bowel movements a challenge. In fact, 1 in 2 postpartum folks have constipation. Pelvic PTs use strategies like breathwork, manual therapy, and posture adjustments to make things move more smoothly (literally).

4. Low back or hip pain probably won’t just go away after pregnancy like you were told

Whether you had a vaginal birth or C-section, your body went through months of postural shifts, weight gain, and stress. This can cause persistent low back or hip. In fact, a history of low back pain and having pelvic pain in pregnancy are two important risk factors for continued pain postpartum. Pelvic PTs address muscle imbalances, alignment, and movement patterns to get you back to a pain-free life.

5. Bladder prolapse: That heavy, “something’s falling out" sensation

If it feels like something is just…not right down there, you might have bladder prolapse. This happens when your bladder drops slightly and pushed into your vaginal walls. (Your rectum and uterus can prolapse, too.) It can happen due to weakened support from the pelvic floor. A pelvic PT can help improve symptoms with specific exercises, breathing techniques, and movement modifications.

6. Your abdominals can stretch apart in pregnancy (diastasis recti) and you may need help healing them

Diastasis recti, or abdominal separation, affects many postpartum people. And 1 in 3 of them will still have abdominal muscle separation at 1 year postpartum. A pelvic PT can assess the severity and guide you through safe, effective exercises to help heal the gap and rebuild core strength.

7. Sex can feel different and even be painful

Postpartum sex can range from mildly uncomfortable to downright painful. Hormonal changes, scar tissue, and muscle tightness are usually to blame. Pelvic PTs use gentle techniques to reduce pain, improve tissue mobility, and help you feel comfortable and confident again.

8. Because it’s easy to neglect your neck and shoulders when feeding your baby

Feeding a baby requires long hours in awkward positions, leading to neck, shoulder, and upper back pain. In fact, more than 50% of parents report neck pain when body feeding. A pelvic PT can teach you better posture, supportive positions, and simple exercises to prevent pain while keeping your baby fed and happy.

9. Because babies are heavy and wiggly, which can strain your wrist and cause “mommy thumb”

If your wrist is aching from constant baby lifting, diaper changes, and stroller pushing, you might have “mommy thumb,” or as your doctor calls it: De Quervains Tenosynovitis. A PT can provide stretches, strengthening exercises, and hands-on techniques to reduce pain and prevent worsening symptoms.

10. Lingering pain can affect postpartum mental health — and vice versa

Chronic pain, discomfort, and feeling disconnected from your body can take a toll on your mental health. Research shows that addressing physical pain can improve mood and overall well-being. A pelvic PT can help you feel stronger and more in control, which can make all the difference in early parenthood.

11. Glute Strengthening: The Secret to Full-Body Recovery

Weak glutes contribute to back pain, pelvic instability, and poor posture — things you don’t want while carrying a growing baby (or chasing a toddler). A pelvic PT can guide you through effective, safe exercises to build strength and prevent injuries down the road.

You’ve got this and pelvic PT can help

Your body has done something incredible, but it also deserves real recovery. Pelvic PT can be a game-changer, helping you heal, feel stronger, and regain confidence in your body. Don’t wait until problems arise — take charge of your postpartum recovery and get the support you deserve.